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Cupid's Bow, Texas #2
Falling for the Rancher
A CHANCE TO HEAL
Jarrett Ross's freewheeling lifestyle nearly cost his family everything. So he's sworn off the rodeo and women, and not a moment too soon. When he hires stunning redhead Sierra Bailey to be his sister's physical therapist, he knows she's off-limits…and yet somehow twice as hard to ignore.
City gal Sierra dreads small-town life and insists her new job in Cupid's Bow, Texas, is only temporary, although being around a sexy cowboy is an unexpected perk. There are so many reasons Sierra should keep her distance from Jarrett. But as they work together to help his sister heal, it's obvious they're a great team. Will Sierra and Jarrett follow their hearts and make this temporary arrangement permanent?
235 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 5, 2016
13 people are currently reading
56 people want to read
About the author
Tanya Michaels
141 books59 followersTanya Michaels is an award-winning author of more than thirty romance and women's fiction novels, as well as numerous short stories and nonfiction essays. She is a four-time finalist for the prestigious RITA, awarded annually by Romance Writers of America, and was nominated for RT Book Review’s Career Achievement in Category Romance. When she's not speaking at reader events and writer conferences, she's at home in Georgia with her husband of fifteen years and their two highly imaginative children. For a glimpse into Tanya's chaotic daily life, as well as updates on her current books and TV show addictions, follow Tanya on Twitter.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
September 25, 2020
Fantastic. She was employed again - by a laconic cowboy who lived at the butt-end of nowhere and kept staring eerily into space as if he were about to have a psychic vision. pg. 31
Jarrett is a 'ladies' man' and a ex-rodeo-rider. He's consumed with guilt because he blew off his sister in order to have a one-night-stand with a woman and his sister got hit by a drunk driver that night and now she's in a wheelchair. He's sworn off women and sex, and he feels responsible for what happened to Vicki.
Sierra is a brash, abrasive, opinionated, hard woman who is a physical therapist. She loses her job... probably partly because of her personality, and also because a patient kissed her. He was married. She wasn't interested in the man at all, but still got fired for it.
Jarrett hires her to rehabilitate his sister. He's kind of upset that Sierra is a gorgeous redhead, seeing as he's vowed to be celibate. Sierra's not too happy either - she hates small towns and horses, and she's not making as much money as she did with her previous job. Beggars can't be choosers.
Helping Vicki is not easy - she is sullen and angry because of the accident's resulting disabilities.
Eventually Sierra and Jarrett develop feelings for each other.
I liked Michaels' mild humor. This is not one of her funnier books, but there's still some slightly funny scenes and I always think an author having a sense of humor is a plus.
She knew it was bad form to show up tardy to an interview, but before she'd had a chance to explain, Jarrett had suddenly declared, "Tea!" the way a scientist might shout "Eureka!" Then he'd pointed her into a wood-paneled study and bolted in the opposite direction. Presumably, to fetch tea. pg. 28
I also like how Sierra is portrayed: bossy, opinionated, pushy, unrelenting... not your typical romance heroine. And she's still that way by the end of the book, love doesn't 'soften' her. And her hardness doesn't put Jarrett off any.
I don't like Jarrett's rather low self-esteem. Feeling guilt about your sister's accident is fine, although I think the responsibility lies with the drunk driver, even swearing off women is (misguided, but) fine. However, he seems to believe he's not worthy of getting married or being anyone's number one. Because he's 'just a cowboy' and 'still lives with his parents' - a gross misinterpretation of someone running a family ranch. That's his fucking job. ??? Baffling.
Another thing that annoyed me was that when Jarrett and Sierra DO finally start having sex, he tells her (after first-time sex) that they have to keep it a secret from Vicki. What a dick. One, he should have disclosed this need for secrecy BEFORE taking her to bed. Secondly, NEVER allow someone to hide you. If someone wants to fuck you, but doesn't want anyone knowing about it and definitely doesn't want his family knowing about it, THEY ARE AN ASSHOLE. Do not allow someone to treat you this way. You're good enough to fuck, but not good enough to be known as a dating partner (or whatever)? FUCK THAT SHIT. Don't allow anyone to get away with that shit. I don't care how 'hot' they are, you deserve better than that. I was angry that Jarrett had sex with Sierra and then pulled this shit, and I was sad that she (an allegedly strong-willed woman) went along with it and agreed to keep it a secret. Even if he's already fucked you, DO NOT ALLOW HIM TO FUCK YOU AGAIN after he tells you that you are going to be a secret lover that he hides away. WHAT THE FUCK. HAVE SOME SELF-RESPECT.
Okay, I'll stop ranting now.
Another thing I disliked is that this book employs the very popular Harlequin American Romance trope called force-someone-who-is-terrified-of-horses-to-ride-them. The person is invariably female. I'm against this. It's bad for the horse, it's bad for the human, and quite frankly it's sadistic and paternalistic. If someone doesn't want to ride a horse, don't FUCKING FORCE THEM TO RIDE A HORSE. I can't even imagine why this would be considered a good idea, it's obviously a terrible idea. Sierra broke her back in a horse fall as a child, Vicki (and Jarrett, to a lesser extent) force her into getting on a horse again. I don't see why this is necessary.
Some cute scenes not only between Jarrett and Sierra, but also with Vicki, the three of them have a cute dynamic and seemed like a family most times.
Your opinion of Jarrett's rather extensive sexual past may vary, but Michaels tries to soften it and make Sierra 'special' by emphasizing the relationship aspect and the daily things. Like this:
Jarrett had always been very goal-oriented. It was one of the things that made him a winner in the ring. With past lovers, he'd focused on the act of sex itself, on making sure his partner enjoyed herself, but he'd overlooked how sexy even seemingly platonic moments could be. Maybe because you never bothered to have platonic moments. When a woman had demonstrated her interest in him, he hadn't spent weeks courting her before seducing her. In some ways, the relationship with Sierra was one of the most personal he'd ever had. He wasn't used to planning to-do lists with someone else, standing side by side as they did dishes, noting how adorably sleepy she looked at the end of a long day. Even arguing was new. His sexual encounters were usually amiable and conflict-free. Shallow. pg. 120
or
He headed up the stairs, struck by the novelty of how rare it was to be with a woman under his own roof. There'd been a few furtive encounters at the ranch over the years, but a lot of his love life had taken place in motel rooms and the bench seat of trucks. When was the last time he'd woken up next to a woman he'd fallen asleep beside and started the day with her? He's seen quite a few lovers naked, but he was woefully inexperienced when it came to actual intimacy. He liked that he knew exactly how Sierra fixed her morning coffee and how adorably disheveled she looked in her polka-dot pajamas. pg. 170
HOW'S THE SEX, CARMEN?
Sigh. Sierra REFUSES to allow him to get her off before having PinV sex with her. Amateur mistake. Huge mistake. So the sex after that follows the same format - him having PinV sex with her with no fingering or cunnilingus. :( At least they always used condoms. That was good. Very careful about always using a condom in this book - props.
TL;DR Another cute, slightly funny book from Michaels. I liked seeing a heroine who was bold and generally gave no fucks.
ROMANCE CATEGORIES
Contemporary Romance
Cowboy/Western Romance
STEM Heroine Romance
Non-Virgin Heroine
He Ranches, Farms, Takes Care of Cattle, Gives Riding Lessons, and Offers Equine Therapy; She is a Physical Therapist.
Takes Place in Texas, U.S.A.
NAMES IN THIS BOOK
Jarrett is a 'ladies' man' and a ex-rodeo-rider. He's consumed with guilt because he blew off his sister in order to have a one-night-stand with a woman and his sister got hit by a drunk driver that night and now she's in a wheelchair. He's sworn off women and sex, and he feels responsible for what happened to Vicki.
Sierra is a brash, abrasive, opinionated, hard woman who is a physical therapist. She loses her job... probably partly because of her personality, and also because a patient kissed her. He was married. She wasn't interested in the man at all, but still got fired for it.
Jarrett hires her to rehabilitate his sister. He's kind of upset that Sierra is a gorgeous redhead, seeing as he's vowed to be celibate. Sierra's not too happy either - she hates small towns and horses, and she's not making as much money as she did with her previous job. Beggars can't be choosers.
Helping Vicki is not easy - she is sullen and angry because of the accident's resulting disabilities.
Eventually Sierra and Jarrett develop feelings for each other.
I liked Michaels' mild humor. This is not one of her funnier books, but there's still some slightly funny scenes and I always think an author having a sense of humor is a plus.
She knew it was bad form to show up tardy to an interview, but before she'd had a chance to explain, Jarrett had suddenly declared, "Tea!" the way a scientist might shout "Eureka!" Then he'd pointed her into a wood-paneled study and bolted in the opposite direction. Presumably, to fetch tea. pg. 28
I also like how Sierra is portrayed: bossy, opinionated, pushy, unrelenting... not your typical romance heroine. And she's still that way by the end of the book, love doesn't 'soften' her. And her hardness doesn't put Jarrett off any.
I don't like Jarrett's rather low self-esteem. Feeling guilt about your sister's accident is fine, although I think the responsibility lies with the drunk driver, even swearing off women is (misguided, but) fine. However, he seems to believe he's not worthy of getting married or being anyone's number one. Because he's 'just a cowboy' and 'still lives with his parents' - a gross misinterpretation of someone running a family ranch. That's his fucking job. ??? Baffling.
Another thing that annoyed me was that when Jarrett and Sierra DO finally start having sex, he tells her (after first-time sex) that they have to keep it a secret from Vicki. What a dick. One, he should have disclosed this need for secrecy BEFORE taking her to bed. Secondly, NEVER allow someone to hide you. If someone wants to fuck you, but doesn't want anyone knowing about it and definitely doesn't want his family knowing about it, THEY ARE AN ASSHOLE. Do not allow someone to treat you this way. You're good enough to fuck, but not good enough to be known as a dating partner (or whatever)? FUCK THAT SHIT. Don't allow anyone to get away with that shit. I don't care how 'hot' they are, you deserve better than that. I was angry that Jarrett had sex with Sierra and then pulled this shit, and I was sad that she (an allegedly strong-willed woman) went along with it and agreed to keep it a secret. Even if he's already fucked you, DO NOT ALLOW HIM TO FUCK YOU AGAIN after he tells you that you are going to be a secret lover that he hides away. WHAT THE FUCK. HAVE SOME SELF-RESPECT.
Okay, I'll stop ranting now.
Another thing I disliked is that this book employs the very popular Harlequin American Romance trope called force-someone-who-is-terrified-of-horses-to-ride-them. The person is invariably female. I'm against this. It's bad for the horse, it's bad for the human, and quite frankly it's sadistic and paternalistic. If someone doesn't want to ride a horse, don't FUCKING FORCE THEM TO RIDE A HORSE. I can't even imagine why this would be considered a good idea, it's obviously a terrible idea. Sierra broke her back in a horse fall as a child, Vicki (and Jarrett, to a lesser extent) force her into getting on a horse again. I don't see why this is necessary.
Some cute scenes not only between Jarrett and Sierra, but also with Vicki, the three of them have a cute dynamic and seemed like a family most times.
Your opinion of Jarrett's rather extensive sexual past may vary, but Michaels tries to soften it and make Sierra 'special' by emphasizing the relationship aspect and the daily things. Like this:
Jarrett had always been very goal-oriented. It was one of the things that made him a winner in the ring. With past lovers, he'd focused on the act of sex itself, on making sure his partner enjoyed herself, but he'd overlooked how sexy even seemingly platonic moments could be. Maybe because you never bothered to have platonic moments. When a woman had demonstrated her interest in him, he hadn't spent weeks courting her before seducing her. In some ways, the relationship with Sierra was one of the most personal he'd ever had. He wasn't used to planning to-do lists with someone else, standing side by side as they did dishes, noting how adorably sleepy she looked at the end of a long day. Even arguing was new. His sexual encounters were usually amiable and conflict-free. Shallow. pg. 120
or
He headed up the stairs, struck by the novelty of how rare it was to be with a woman under his own roof. There'd been a few furtive encounters at the ranch over the years, but a lot of his love life had taken place in motel rooms and the bench seat of trucks. When was the last time he'd woken up next to a woman he'd fallen asleep beside and started the day with her? He's seen quite a few lovers naked, but he was woefully inexperienced when it came to actual intimacy. He liked that he knew exactly how Sierra fixed her morning coffee and how adorably disheveled she looked in her polka-dot pajamas. pg. 170
HOW'S THE SEX, CARMEN?
Sigh. Sierra REFUSES to allow him to get her off before having PinV sex with her. Amateur mistake. Huge mistake. So the sex after that follows the same format - him having PinV sex with her with no fingering or cunnilingus. :( At least they always used condoms. That was good. Very careful about always using a condom in this book - props.
TL;DR Another cute, slightly funny book from Michaels. I liked seeing a heroine who was bold and generally gave no fucks.
ROMANCE CATEGORIES
Contemporary Romance
Cowboy/Western Romance
STEM Heroine Romance
Non-Virgin Heroine
He Ranches, Farms, Takes Care of Cattle, Gives Riding Lessons, and Offers Equine Therapy; She is a Physical Therapist.
Takes Place in Texas, U.S.A.
NAMES IN THIS BOOK
June 18, 2017
Lothario hero carrying a mountain of guilt falls for a physical therapist heroine who is at a crossroads both personally and professionally. I loved the heroine's attitude and there is a suitable amount of chemistry between the romantic couple. Quite a few secondary characters given this is part of a small town series, but the added addition of the hero's sister added some heft to the conflict. It didn't change my life but this was a good, solid, enjoyable read.
March 30, 2016
Jarrett Ross is home working the family ranch as his penance for the free-wheelin’ ladies’ man lifestyle which he feels is responsible for his sister’s car accident and slow recovery. Normally, I stop reading when I see there’s a ladies’ man involved, but when I met Jarrett, my heart really went out to him. He’s wracked with grief as he busts his hump to work the ranch and take care of his sister while their parents are away.
Jarrett thinks the physical therapist they hired to help his sister is the best thing…until he meets the fiery redhead with more curves than a mountain road. Sierra is stubborn, tough and brutally honest. Not to mention feisty as all get out! This girl gives Jarrett a run for his money! Not only is Sierra doing amazing work with his sister, she’s befriended by Kate, the sheriff’s fiancée and drawn into the workings of small town Cupid’s Bow.
Jarrett and Sierra’s chemistry is atomic! And when they kiss…..ooooooo fire! I love them together. They complement each other so well. There were obviously some bumps along the way, but it didn’t take long for Sierra to win everyone--including me—over with her quick-witted dry humor and her feisty attitude.
FALLING FOR THE RANCHER squeezed my heart to bursting! I can't get enough of the people of Cupid's Bow, Texas! I highly recommend this and any book from the author.
***I was gifted an eBook copy from the publisher via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review. All conclusions reached are my own***
Jarrett thinks the physical therapist they hired to help his sister is the best thing…until he meets the fiery redhead with more curves than a mountain road. Sierra is stubborn, tough and brutally honest. Not to mention feisty as all get out! This girl gives Jarrett a run for his money! Not only is Sierra doing amazing work with his sister, she’s befriended by Kate, the sheriff’s fiancée and drawn into the workings of small town Cupid’s Bow.
Jarrett and Sierra’s chemistry is atomic! And when they kiss…..ooooooo fire! I love them together. They complement each other so well. There were obviously some bumps along the way, but it didn’t take long for Sierra to win everyone--including me—over with her quick-witted dry humor and her feisty attitude.
FALLING FOR THE RANCHER squeezed my heart to bursting! I can't get enough of the people of Cupid's Bow, Texas! I highly recommend this and any book from the author.
***I was gifted an eBook copy from the publisher via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review. All conclusions reached are my own***
June 18, 2017
This is the second installment in the Cupid’s Bow, Texas series and it was a good read. This had a sad storyline because you had a big brother that felt guilty about his sister’s accident. He believed it was his fault that she now couldn’t walk but it was an accident. Yes he should have kept his promise and not gone out with a woman but what if that accident still happened would it still have been his fault. Then there was Sierra she was a great woman and she did her job perfectly. Yes she was hard with her patients but she wanted the best for them. When she first met Vicki there was a clash but it seemed that they got each other. They both had a terrible accident that left them unable to walk but she was able to put in all her strength to get better. Sierra was going to make sure that Vicki walked again but during her time at the ranch there was this instant chemistry between her and Jarrett. He made a comment that he had no interest in Sierra but some things can’t be avoided. They both want each other and it’s only a matter of time before they fall into bed together. But in the end of course there is something that always happen before they can have their happily ever after.
Falling for the Rancher was a good read. The characters were well written. Ms. Michaels’ writing is focused and clear. I love getting lost in her stories. I can’t wait to read more of her stories.
Received ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an Honest Review
Falling for the Rancher was a good read. The characters were well written. Ms. Michaels’ writing is focused and clear. I love getting lost in her stories. I can’t wait to read more of her stories.
Received ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an Honest Review
February 23, 2018
A CHANCE TO HEAL Jarrett Ross's freewheeling lifestyle nearly cost his family everything. Instead of hanging out with his sister, he makes time with some buckle-bunny, while his sister gets involved in an accident that leaves her in a wheelchair. Then his dad has a heart attack during Vicki’s surgery. So, he's sworn off the rodeo and women, and not a moment too soon. When he hires stunning redhead Sierra Bailey to be his sister's (physical therapist), he knows she's off-limits…and yet somehow twice as hard to ignore. City gal Sierra dreads small-town life and insists her new job in Cupid's Bow, Texas, is only temporary, although being around a sexy cowboy is an unexpected perk. After having been wrongfully fired for inappropriate relations with a patient, there are so many reasons Sierra should keep her distance from Jarrett. But as they work together to help his sister heal, it's obvious they're a great team. Will the parents heal their relationship? Will Vicki be able to heal? Will Sierra and Jarrett follow their hearts and make this temporary arrangement permanent?
August 23, 2020
This was really good up until the end. The end was way too fast, didn't really resolve a lot of things, and felt totally forced. But up until those last 10 or so pages, it was a really good story, so still 4 stars.
June 17, 2017
Sierra is a city girl. Out of a job and gets the chance of a temp one in small town Cupid's Bow Texas. No plans to fall in love, likes city life. Tells herself only there to help Jarrett's Sister with physical therapy.
But things don't always work out as planned. Can Jarrett and Sierra both decide to make something out of the feelings, both are trying to hide?
Would recommend to others.
But things don't always work out as planned. Can Jarrett and Sierra both decide to make something out of the feelings, both are trying to hide?
Would recommend to others.
February 11, 2018
This was a good book. I enjoyed all of the characters. I can't wait to read the other books in this series.
June 26, 2018
Good easy read. Good charachters. Typical romance novel. I enjoyed it.
December 17, 2024
Lovely quick, light read.
April 11, 2016
I received an ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review and here it is. 3.5 stars.
Jarrett Ross, a former rodeo cowboy, is now working full-time at the family ranch in Cupid's Bow. Six months ago, his younger sister, Vicki, was injured in an accident with a drunk driver that left her wheelchair bound and severely depressed, something for which he blames himself, since it should have been him behind the wheel, but he blew off his dinner with her for a roll in the sheets with a hot blonde--he's been quite the womanizer for years. While waiting for word about his sister's condition at the hospital, his father suffers a heart attack, something else for which Jarrett blames himself. When his mother decides to get his father away from the ranch to fully recuperate and relax, she puts Jarrett in charge of interviewing and finding a live-in physical therapist for his sister, who will also act as cook and housekeeper while there.
Sierra Bailey, an outspoken and brash physical therapist has just been released from her last place of employment for having an "inappropriate relationship" with one of her patients (he kissed her, she gets blamed). The offer to go to Cupid's Bow and work with Vicki comes just at the right time. She knows she needs to find permanent full-time employment but needs a new source of income and a place to live while searching for it. Her wealthy parents want her to come home, get back in touch with the doctor she was seeing, who left her months ago to work in Africa, and they want her to return home and pick up their country club lifestyle, something she is loathe to do.
As expected, Jarrett and Sierra are attracted to one another, and, as expected from a small-town romance, Sierra starts working with Vicki, the gossip begins, they try to hide their mutual attraction from each other and also from Vicki, and so on.
In short, this is an quick, enjoyable read about life and small town friendships that doesn't really contain a great deal of drama or tension. It's well-written, but there were really no surprises here as the story heads to a HEA ending. Quite a number of other interesting characters are introduced in this novel, and I'm guessing we'll get to know them better as the series progresses.
Jarrett Ross, a former rodeo cowboy, is now working full-time at the family ranch in Cupid's Bow. Six months ago, his younger sister, Vicki, was injured in an accident with a drunk driver that left her wheelchair bound and severely depressed, something for which he blames himself, since it should have been him behind the wheel, but he blew off his dinner with her for a roll in the sheets with a hot blonde--he's been quite the womanizer for years. While waiting for word about his sister's condition at the hospital, his father suffers a heart attack, something else for which Jarrett blames himself. When his mother decides to get his father away from the ranch to fully recuperate and relax, she puts Jarrett in charge of interviewing and finding a live-in physical therapist for his sister, who will also act as cook and housekeeper while there.
Sierra Bailey, an outspoken and brash physical therapist has just been released from her last place of employment for having an "inappropriate relationship" with one of her patients (he kissed her, she gets blamed). The offer to go to Cupid's Bow and work with Vicki comes just at the right time. She knows she needs to find permanent full-time employment but needs a new source of income and a place to live while searching for it. Her wealthy parents want her to come home, get back in touch with the doctor she was seeing, who left her months ago to work in Africa, and they want her to return home and pick up their country club lifestyle, something she is loathe to do.
As expected, Jarrett and Sierra are attracted to one another, and, as expected from a small-town romance, Sierra starts working with Vicki, the gossip begins, they try to hide their mutual attraction from each other and also from Vicki, and so on.
In short, this is an quick, enjoyable read about life and small town friendships that doesn't really contain a great deal of drama or tension. It's well-written, but there were really no surprises here as the story heads to a HEA ending. Quite a number of other interesting characters are introduced in this novel, and I'm guessing we'll get to know them better as the series progresses.
May 8, 2016
3.5 stars
I don't know what the problem is, but I have been having one heck of a hard time becoming engaged in any book I pick up. I did enjoy Falling for the Rancher, but at times I was bored and felt that the plot didn't move swiftly enough to hold my attention. Jarrett also burned too hot and then cold for my tastes, due to his guilt about his sister's accident.
Sierra rubbed me the wrong way at first, but I gradually started to like her better as the story progressed. At first she came across (to me) as a self-absorbed, privileged snob. She has just been fired from her PT job due to her history of not going by the book, and she's having no luck finding another position due to her rep. When a cowboy suggests a position with the Ross's, working with their 19 year old daughter, she's reluctant at first because it's in an out of the way, podunk town (with poor signage). Beggars can't be choosers, however, and she's forced by her bank balance to take the job.
Jarrett is riddled with guilt. First, he feels his selfishness caused his sister's tragic accident, which left her in a wheelchair. While she was in surgery, his father suffered from a heart attack. Months later, when his mother wants to force her husband to take a break from their ranch and go on vacation, Jarrett promises to look after both the ranch and his resentful sister. When Sierra comes along, she's like a godsend- she's tough enough to push Vickie and not take any crap from her, and she's willing to work for the meager salary they are offering.
Neither protagonist connected with me, though I did like Vickie and would like to read her story. I didn't like that Jarrett convinced Sierra to keep their relationship a secret from Vickie, and dreaded the predicted conflict that would cause when she discovered that Jarrett was back to his old womanizing ways. The ending was also jarring and felt extremely abrupt to me. I did enjoy the supporting cast, and will more than likely read the previous books in the series.
I don't know what the problem is, but I have been having one heck of a hard time becoming engaged in any book I pick up. I did enjoy Falling for the Rancher, but at times I was bored and felt that the plot didn't move swiftly enough to hold my attention. Jarrett also burned too hot and then cold for my tastes, due to his guilt about his sister's accident.
Sierra rubbed me the wrong way at first, but I gradually started to like her better as the story progressed. At first she came across (to me) as a self-absorbed, privileged snob. She has just been fired from her PT job due to her history of not going by the book, and she's having no luck finding another position due to her rep. When a cowboy suggests a position with the Ross's, working with their 19 year old daughter, she's reluctant at first because it's in an out of the way, podunk town (with poor signage). Beggars can't be choosers, however, and she's forced by her bank balance to take the job.
Jarrett is riddled with guilt. First, he feels his selfishness caused his sister's tragic accident, which left her in a wheelchair. While she was in surgery, his father suffered from a heart attack. Months later, when his mother wants to force her husband to take a break from their ranch and go on vacation, Jarrett promises to look after both the ranch and his resentful sister. When Sierra comes along, she's like a godsend- she's tough enough to push Vickie and not take any crap from her, and she's willing to work for the meager salary they are offering.
Neither protagonist connected with me, though I did like Vickie and would like to read her story. I didn't like that Jarrett convinced Sierra to keep their relationship a secret from Vickie, and dreaded the predicted conflict that would cause when she discovered that Jarrett was back to his old womanizing ways. The ending was also jarring and felt extremely abrupt to me. I did enjoy the supporting cast, and will more than likely read the previous books in the series.
April 19, 2016
Thanks to Harlequin and Netgalley for the book in exchange for a honest review!
All Jarrett Ross wants is for his sister to walk again. He has moved home to help take care of the ranch since the accident and his dad's health issues. He blames himself for it all. Now his parents are leaving to have some time away and to let his dad relax, but he can't do it all by himself so he has to hire someone to help Vicki so he can do his job on the ranch. He thought they'd hire an older lady to take care of Vicki and take her to doctor appointments, but the only applicant that he thought might actually help Vicki was Sierra. Too bad she's an employee, shes gorgeous and off limits. That's what got him in this problem.
Sierra loves being a physical therapist. Since she had her own injury when she was young she knew she wanted to help someone like she was helped. She's recently jobless and this job in Cupid's Bow looks like it might be the answer for her right now. She wants to help Vicki and the fact that Jarrett is attractive is not going to get in her way of doing this job and doing it well.
Jarrett lives his life swimming in guilt. He's worried about his sister and his dad. He is attracted to Sierra but he doesn't want to choose his own happiness over making sure his sister is taken care of. They gave it a good try, and then they gave in. I enjoyed that Sierra was a strong and independent woman, despite growing up in a well off family she wasn't afraid to get dirty and do what needed to be done. I do wish that Jarrett would have gotten rid of some of his own guilt and that we would of gotten to see that growth. In the end it was a good story and I enjoyed it. Leave the author love in the form of a review!
All Jarrett Ross wants is for his sister to walk again. He has moved home to help take care of the ranch since the accident and his dad's health issues. He blames himself for it all. Now his parents are leaving to have some time away and to let his dad relax, but he can't do it all by himself so he has to hire someone to help Vicki so he can do his job on the ranch. He thought they'd hire an older lady to take care of Vicki and take her to doctor appointments, but the only applicant that he thought might actually help Vicki was Sierra. Too bad she's an employee, shes gorgeous and off limits. That's what got him in this problem.
Sierra loves being a physical therapist. Since she had her own injury when she was young she knew she wanted to help someone like she was helped. She's recently jobless and this job in Cupid's Bow looks like it might be the answer for her right now. She wants to help Vicki and the fact that Jarrett is attractive is not going to get in her way of doing this job and doing it well.
Jarrett lives his life swimming in guilt. He's worried about his sister and his dad. He is attracted to Sierra but he doesn't want to choose his own happiness over making sure his sister is taken care of. They gave it a good try, and then they gave in. I enjoyed that Sierra was a strong and independent woman, despite growing up in a well off family she wasn't afraid to get dirty and do what needed to be done. I do wish that Jarrett would have gotten rid of some of his own guilt and that we would of gotten to see that growth. In the end it was a good story and I enjoyed it. Leave the author love in the form of a review!
April 4, 2016
When a charmer meets a feisty redhead, and the sparks fly...
Typically, I wouldn't say that a ladies man is my favorite type of a hero, but Jarrett is so much more than that. First, since the accident, he has corrected his ways with the ladies, he has seen redemption on that field, in my book, as he falls head over heals for Sierra, and can't help it for a minute. The flowers he picks for her, the cute notes, riding lessons, support, humor, and funny moments are all so swoon worthy. And then when they kiss the first time, it just rocks the foundation..
The chemistry is incredible between them, and they create some serious heat. But is it all just temporary, a fling, or is there more to the feelings they are so hard fighting against?
Sierra is an amazing lady, her strength, perseverance, and energy are only to be admired. I love her attitude, how she goes after what she wants, and is getting things done. And the healing powers her presence only is providing at the ranch. Not only to the Ross siblings, but to herself as well.
The supportive cast and crew are fun, entertaining town folks, and bringing their own salt into the tale. It is a story that made me swoon several times, smile and cheer, just a great feel good story, despite the tragic accident, that brought it all to be.
~ Four Spoons
Typically, I wouldn't say that a ladies man is my favorite type of a hero, but Jarrett is so much more than that. First, since the accident, he has corrected his ways with the ladies, he has seen redemption on that field, in my book, as he falls head over heals for Sierra, and can't help it for a minute. The flowers he picks for her, the cute notes, riding lessons, support, humor, and funny moments are all so swoon worthy. And then when they kiss the first time, it just rocks the foundation..
The chemistry is incredible between them, and they create some serious heat. But is it all just temporary, a fling, or is there more to the feelings they are so hard fighting against?
Sierra is an amazing lady, her strength, perseverance, and energy are only to be admired. I love her attitude, how she goes after what she wants, and is getting things done. And the healing powers her presence only is providing at the ranch. Not only to the Ross siblings, but to herself as well.
The supportive cast and crew are fun, entertaining town folks, and bringing their own salt into the tale. It is a story that made me swoon several times, smile and cheer, just a great feel good story, despite the tragic accident, that brought it all to be.
~ Four Spoons
April 3, 2016
Sierra is on her next job as a physical therapist which is a welcomed chang after the accusations of her last client. Shes a city girl so life in a small town has its obvious differences. Shes now working for Jarrett Ross's younger sister who was injured by a drunk driver. Ever since the accident Jarrett and his younger sister can't help but feel its his fault and he's pretty much sworn off his old lifestyle and girls. Soon as Sierra steps in as competent at her job she he just can't keep his eyes off of her.
I enjoyed this book it was sweet, simple and predictable. It was a light and fun read. I enjoyed seeing the interaction between Jarrett and Sierra. I loved how well meaning she was with every choice that she made. I loved how the small town lifestyle was getting to her and how she was able to help her client do more with herself then stay depressed. Overall a pretty good story I really enjoyed it.
I enjoyed this book it was sweet, simple and predictable. It was a light and fun read. I enjoyed seeing the interaction between Jarrett and Sierra. I loved how well meaning she was with every choice that she made. I loved how the small town lifestyle was getting to her and how she was able to help her client do more with herself then stay depressed. Overall a pretty good story I really enjoyed it.
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June 30, 2016"Michaels does a wonderful job crafting her characters, giving their stories depth and providing an interesting backstory. Readers will enjoy watching the tough hero attempt to fight his attraction to the heroine — and fail miserably" (4 stars @ RT Book Reviews).
Miniseries: Cupid's Bow, Texas
Miniseries: Cupid's Bow, Texas
April 30, 2016
This would have been 5 stars id it wasn't for the ending. She forgave him way too quickly. I love the interaction between the female characters and that his jealousy over his friend going out on a date with her made him rethink himself.
But mostly, reading this novel made me smile. I love that they're just people wanting to move forward in life after so many setbacks.
But mostly, reading this novel made me smile. I love that they're just people wanting to move forward in life after so many setbacks.
June 25, 2016
I love a great storyline set in a small town.Jarret and Sierra really were well thought out characters.i really hope the next book is about Vicki,she would make a great follow up.
April 28, 2017
RITA reader review for Smart Bitches, Trashy Books.
Sierra Bailey has just been fired from her job as a physical therapist and needs a temporary job while she evaluates her future and tries to find a long-term position. A former client gives her a lead to a job in the tiny Texas town of Cupid’s Bow, which has the added bonus of being out of reach of Sierra’s overbearing mother. The job is part physical therapist, part live-in help for Vicki, a 19-year old recovering from a serious car accident. Also in the house is Jarrett Ross, Vicki’s inconveniently hot older brother. He’s returned home to help out on the family ranch after Vicki’s accident and his father’s subsequent heart attack. Ding ding, forced proximity alert!
Jarrett is a former rodeo bronc rider and ladies man. At the beginning of the story, he feels an incredible amount of guilt and responsibility for his sister’s condition, as he chose a one-night-stand over dinner with his sister, and said sister was struck by a drunk driver on her way home. The siblings’ formerly good relationship is now strained and awkward, with Jarrett clamming up and treating Vicki like she’s made of glass, and Vicki lashing out in anger and frustration. Sierra arrives on the Twisted R ranch just as the Ross parents decamp, leaving the siblings to work things out on their own.
Sierra comes to Cupid’s Bow confident on her professional skills, but a bit battered in her personal life. Her romantic relationships have failed to go anywhere, and she’s realizing that her family relationships aren’t as close as she may wish, even though her mother keeps badgering her to move home to Dallas and set up house with any number of nice young men. Both of Sierra’s parents are a bit overprotective after a childhood accident, whereas Sierra chose to become more daring and follow her own path into a career helping others as a physical therapist. She uses a good technique to connect with Vicki, not giving in to pretend bouts of tiredness, but not letting Vicki overdo it either.
Jarrett and Sierra both find each other physically attractive, but resist acting on that attraction for a number of reasons. Sierra knows that this is a temporary job and doesn’t want to get involved with him, plus there is the fact that Jarrett is her employer. Jarrett is trying to turn over a new leaf and not jump into bed with every attractive woman, and reminds himself that Sierra is there to help Vicki. Of course they both continue to think lustfully about each other, and soon are sneaking around behind Vicki’s – and the town’s – back. You can see that this won’t end well, right?
Ms. Michaels does a good job working within the compressed timeline of this short novel, using the close proximity and intimacy of their living situation to bring Jarrett and Sierra together quickly, but believably. And while it’s evident that this is the second in the series (judging from the amount of time spent on her life details, Sierra’s new friend Kate was the subject of the first), at no point did I feel that I was missing vital information, or confused about what was going on. Both hero and heroine are well written, and the supporting characters aren’t mere cutouts, nor do they steal the show. Vicki was a great secondary heroine, exhibiting drive and determination in her recovery, and not above making jokes at her own expense. The town itself is also a bit of a character, with the various festivals and nosy neighbors common in small-town romance.
My main issue with Falling for the Rancher is the ending. In the final chapter, we get both the big fallout AND the heartwarming resolution. There is simply not enough time to really work out whether Jarrett and Sierra have a HEA, or a HFN. I’m sure this is partly due to page limits, but I also expect that they will play a part in the next story, much like how we are caught up with Kate’s life in this volume. The abruptness of the ending, combined with the semi-predictable plot, makes this a good book, but not a great one, and probably not one I’ll re-read.
Sierra Bailey has just been fired from her job as a physical therapist and needs a temporary job while she evaluates her future and tries to find a long-term position. A former client gives her a lead to a job in the tiny Texas town of Cupid’s Bow, which has the added bonus of being out of reach of Sierra’s overbearing mother. The job is part physical therapist, part live-in help for Vicki, a 19-year old recovering from a serious car accident. Also in the house is Jarrett Ross, Vicki’s inconveniently hot older brother. He’s returned home to help out on the family ranch after Vicki’s accident and his father’s subsequent heart attack. Ding ding, forced proximity alert!
Jarrett is a former rodeo bronc rider and ladies man. At the beginning of the story, he feels an incredible amount of guilt and responsibility for his sister’s condition, as he chose a one-night-stand over dinner with his sister, and said sister was struck by a drunk driver on her way home. The siblings’ formerly good relationship is now strained and awkward, with Jarrett clamming up and treating Vicki like she’s made of glass, and Vicki lashing out in anger and frustration. Sierra arrives on the Twisted R ranch just as the Ross parents decamp, leaving the siblings to work things out on their own.
Sierra comes to Cupid’s Bow confident on her professional skills, but a bit battered in her personal life. Her romantic relationships have failed to go anywhere, and she’s realizing that her family relationships aren’t as close as she may wish, even though her mother keeps badgering her to move home to Dallas and set up house with any number of nice young men. Both of Sierra’s parents are a bit overprotective after a childhood accident, whereas Sierra chose to become more daring and follow her own path into a career helping others as a physical therapist. She uses a good technique to connect with Vicki, not giving in to pretend bouts of tiredness, but not letting Vicki overdo it either.
Jarrett and Sierra both find each other physically attractive, but resist acting on that attraction for a number of reasons. Sierra knows that this is a temporary job and doesn’t want to get involved with him, plus there is the fact that Jarrett is her employer. Jarrett is trying to turn over a new leaf and not jump into bed with every attractive woman, and reminds himself that Sierra is there to help Vicki. Of course they both continue to think lustfully about each other, and soon are sneaking around behind Vicki’s – and the town’s – back. You can see that this won’t end well, right?
Ms. Michaels does a good job working within the compressed timeline of this short novel, using the close proximity and intimacy of their living situation to bring Jarrett and Sierra together quickly, but believably. And while it’s evident that this is the second in the series (judging from the amount of time spent on her life details, Sierra’s new friend Kate was the subject of the first), at no point did I feel that I was missing vital information, or confused about what was going on. Both hero and heroine are well written, and the supporting characters aren’t mere cutouts, nor do they steal the show. Vicki was a great secondary heroine, exhibiting drive and determination in her recovery, and not above making jokes at her own expense. The town itself is also a bit of a character, with the various festivals and nosy neighbors common in small-town romance.
My main issue with Falling for the Rancher is the ending. In the final chapter, we get both the big fallout AND the heartwarming resolution. There is simply not enough time to really work out whether Jarrett and Sierra have a HEA, or a HFN. I’m sure this is partly due to page limits, but I also expect that they will play a part in the next story, much like how we are caught up with Kate’s life in this volume. The abruptness of the ending, combined with the semi-predictable plot, makes this a good book, but not a great one, and probably not one I’ll re-read.
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